Are you looking for a dinner that's as visually stunning as it is delicious? Look no further! This squid ink pasta recipe is a guaranteed showstopper, perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a truly unique and memorable meal. Forget boring spaghetti – this inky black pasta is bursting with flavour and offers a sophisticated twist on a classic. It's easier to make than you think, promising a restaurant-quality experience without the restaurant price tag. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried squid ink pasta (linguine or spaghetti work well)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined (or other seafood like mussels or clams)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the squid ink pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Deglaze with Wine
Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for a minute or two, allowing the alcohol to cook off. This step adds depth of flavour to your sauce.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Seasoning
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Add Shrimp (or Seafood)
Add the shrimp to the sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. If using other seafood, adjust cooking time accordingly. Mussels and clams typically cook much faster.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Stir in the chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Cooking Tips for the Best Squid Ink Pasta:
- Don't be afraid of the color! Squid ink pasta is naturally dark, almost black. This is part of its charm!
- Use good quality ingredients. The better the ingredients, the better the dish will taste.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Every stove and palate is different, so feel free to experiment with the amount of red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Don't overcook the pasta. Al dente pasta is key to a perfect dish.
- Save some pasta water! This is crucial for adjusting the sauce consistency.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Sauté some cherry tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini with the garlic for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Use different seafood: Lobster, scallops, or even canned tuna would be delicious in this dish.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the seafood and add a handful of sauteed mushrooms or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information will vary based on specific ingredients used. Use a nutrition calculator for a more precise analysis.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: Around 25-30g
- Fat: Around 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Around 40-50g
This squid ink pasta recipe is a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious meal. It's a perfect example of how easy it is to create impressive and flavorful dishes with minimal effort. Enjoy the deliciousness and the dramatic presentation! It's certainly one of the best recipes for a special night in.